galmc2Report

You should believe everything you’ve heard – Ha Long Bay is spectacular and should definitely be included in everyone’s trip to Vietnam. There are many ways to explore the area. We chose to do a 2 night cruise and it worked out great! (Well, apart from a little stomach bug I picked up somewhere along the way that took me down the last day, but even with that, it was still amazing!)

I chose this cruise in particular because there were lots of activities involved. Staying in one place for an extended period when I know there are so many things to discover nearby, is not my strong suit. (Hmmm… I guess that’s why I like this travel gig so much. I do realize it’s not for everyone.)

Most of the pictures I had seen before going to Ha Long Bay were of these limestone cliffs with nothing around so I did not have a clear understanding about how many people live and work on the bay.

When I awoke the next morning the boat was moving and so I went up to the top deck and was able to take it in all by myself. I was so overwhelmed by the beauty that I was tearing up while attempting to capture the moment on film. And then I just sat and tried to soak in the reality of where I was. It was an incredible feeling!

After breakfast we were loaded onto the little transfer boat and off to Cat Ba Island where we did some caving, hiking, a beach stop and ate a delicious lunch.

After a fun night of conversation, a few drinks and karaoke (they LOVE their karaoke in Vietnam). We didn’t sing but even my voice couldn’t have been heard above the cranked volume level. Arn and Tessa however, were amazing (Bohemian Rhapsody was a highlight)!

The last day was not good for me and I had to stay very close to a toilet.

The others enjoyed a bike ride through a small village and along a country road.

The whole experience was just so incredible (well, except for the puking in a potted plant when I reached the dock- that was not my best moment!).

I still tear up a little when I recall that first morning and my feelings of awe and amazement at being there. I don’t know if I will ever return but I hope you too will get to experience it if you haven’t already.